Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of living in El Paso?

The cost of living in El Paso is affordable, especially in comparison to other cities. Students spend an average of $500-$800 a month including rent.

Is living in El Paso safe?

In May 2010, El Paso was chosen as the second safest large city (population greater than 500,000) in the United States, and has been one of the top three safest large cities for seven years in a row.

Do I need to have a car?

Yes, it is important to have a car in El Paso. The public transportation system is not always reliable. You will be making trips to Thomason Hospital to visit clients and babies. Car insurance is required by the state of Texas.If you are coming for a short term stay, a car is not required.

Can I work a job while there?

No, with the 24-hour shifts and classes it would be very difficult to have a job and do the program. The program is more than a full time job. There have been a few students that have had part time work, but we strongly discourageit.

Does the school provide housing?

The school does not provide housing. Students often share housing and graduating students often turn their houses over to new students. We have a special new student housing bulletin board located in the center. If you send us a letter with your phone number and housing requests we will post it. Shortterm students can often find housing with current students.

How much time is allotted for sleeping on a 24-hour shift?

When the clinic is not busy you may be able to sleep in the student quarters upstairs.

How long is the program?

The One-Year Program prepares you to be a CPM. The Three-Year program (actually a two-year on-site program) prepares you for licensure in California and possibly other jurisdictions. There is also a three-month practicum for aspiring or advanced midwives.

Can I come for a shorter time?

Maternidad La Luz will accept applications from those who desire a short-term visit when openings are available. Any placement from one week to less than one quarter (three months) is considered short term. This opportunity is open to those investigating a career in midwifery, experienced midwives who want to participate in birth center setting, and others interested in studyingat Maternidad La Luz.

Do you have to be able to speak Spanish?

Yes, it is important to have a working knowledge of the Spanish language. Approximately 95% of the clients at Maternidad La Luz are primarily Spanish speakers.

Do you provide or have available health insurance for students?

No, students are responsible for their own health insurance.

Do you provide or have malpractice insurance?No.

How can I find housing in El Paso before I get there?

There is a student housing board at the clinic that you can check, or the El Paso Times newspaper is available on line. You may also contact us through our website.

Can I visit the clinic?

MLL welcomes visitors to the center for a 24-hour shift. Call the director before coming to set up a date.

Are scholarships of financial aid available?

Maternidad La Luz sponsors one full tuition scholarship to assist a woman of color in her study of midwifery. There are some work-study scholarships available for the fifth through the ninth quarters. Some students who are enrolled in college have been able to arrange financial aid through their university. Local women?s resource centers have provided grants. State work force agencies and state rehabilitation agencies have provided financial aid for Maternidad La Luz students.